Rising; appearing out of reach height-wise. [First attested around (1150 to 1350.)]

(social) Superior.

Figuratively, higher than; superior to in any respect; surpassing; higher in measure, degree, volume, or pitch, etc. than; out of reach; not exposed to; not likely to be affected by; incapable of negative actions or thoughts. [First attested around (1150 to 1350.)]

Even the chief of police is not above suspicion.

He was aways above reproach.

Higher in rank, status, or position. [First attested around (1150 to 1350.)]

Being located higher on the same page or on a preceding page. [First attested in the mid 18th century.]

Usage notes

Above is often used elliptically as an adjective by omitting the word said, mentioned, quoted, or the like:

the above(-said) observations

the above(-cited) reference

the above(-quoted) articles

Noun

(uncountable)

Heaven. [First attested around (1150 to 1350).]

Something, especially a person's name in legal documents, that appears higher on the same page or on a preceding page.

Higher authority.

Usage notes

Above is often used further elliptically as a noun by omitting the noun, where it is should be clear what is omitted.

Origin

From Middle English above (“above”), aboven, abuven, from Old English ābufan, onbufan from a (“on”) + bufan (“over”), (akin to Icelandic ofan (“above”), Middle Dutch bōven, Old Frisian bova, Middle High German bobene) from bī (“by”) + ufan (“over”); also cognate with Danishoven, Dutchboven, Germanoben, Swedishovan, Old Saxon oƀan, Old High German obana.

above - Legal Definition

adv

Previously in the same chapter, document, or text. For
example, a reference to a court case cited earlier in the same
document.

Having
the power to review the decisions regarding questions of fact and/or law made
in a court. For example, appellate courts, such as the United States Supreme
Court, are above, or can review, the decisions made by one or more trial
courts. See jurisdiction, question of fact, and question of law.